Dmitry Bivol Contemplates Move to Super Middleweight for Big Fights
Dmitry Bivol, the skilled light heavyweight boxer, is considering the possibility of dropping down to the super middleweight division for significant bouts and a chance to compete for a world title. One of the matchups that piques his interest is a rematch with Canelo Alvarez. However, Bivol would need to shed some weight, as he typically rehydrates to around 185 lbs for his fights in the light heavyweight category. If fighters like David Benavidez can make the move to 168, Bivol believes he can do the same. Bivol's management is actively seeking an opponent for him to face in December or January. While they've mentioned the names of Radivoje 'Hot Rod' Kalajdzic and Ronald Gavril, these fighters may not generate substantial interest from the boxing public due to their relatively low profiles. For now, Bivol is focused on his upcoming bout with Callum Smith on January 13th, where he aims to become the undisputed champion by defeating IBF/WBC/WBO champ Artur Beterbiev. However, Bivol recognizes that remaining in the light heavyweight division after facing Beterbiev might not be a wise decision, as the division's talent pool could diminish significantly. "It's easier for Dmitry to go to 168, and I'll let him speak for that. There are some bigger fights out there for him at 168," remarked Vadim Kornilov to Fight Hub TV, addressing Bivol's potential move to super middleweight. Bivol, in response, noted, "I think it's easier for me to move down to 168 than it is to move up [to cruiserweight] for me." If Bivol decides to transition to the super middleweight division, it would likely be for matchups against fighters of considerable caliber, such as David Benavidez, Caleb Plant, David Morrell Jr., and Demetrius Andrade. Notably, Canelo Alvarez has shown little interest in a rematch, making it unlikely that Bivol's move to 168 would lead to a second encounter with the Mexican superstar. Bivol's weight management is conducive to this shift, as he disclosed, "In my fights, my weight is 185 lbs maximum. In normal life, my weight is around 190 lbs, and to make 175, it's easy." With a strategic training camp and a focus on weight control, Bivol believes he can comfortably make the 168 lbs limit for super middleweight.
